Overview

• The World Bank suspended a $150 million tourism development project in Tanzania following intense pressure from human rights organizations.
• Investigations revealed that the project led to killings, sexual assaults, and forced evictions of local communities.
• At least $100 million had already been disbursed for the project, which began in 2017 and aimed to expand Ruaha National Park.
• Rights watchdogs claim the Tanzanian government's actions to boost tourism are tied to the funding, resulting in widespread abuses.
• The suspension marks a significant shift in policy as the World Bank reassesses its compliance with environmental and social standards.